Pros and Cons of Underground Fiber Optic Cable

As technology and internet usage advance, so does the way we transmit data. Fiber optic cables are now the gold standard for sending information quickly and securely. While many communities have opted to use aerial fiber optic cables, running fiber optic cables underground has its own set of pros and cons.

What Is Underground Fiber Optic Cable Used For?

Underground fiber optic cable is used for the facilitation of faster data transmission over long distances. Underground fiber optic cables are commonly used for municipal networks, business parks, campuses, residential neighborhoods and in areas with heavy traffic, dense construction, or limited utility pole access.

Additionally, as multi-gig internet popularity and access grows, the demand and use of underground fiber optic cables for high-speed internet also increases.

Pros of Underground Fiber Optic Cables

There are several advantages of using underground fiber optic cables.

1. Less Likely to Be Damaged by Above-ground Elements

Since the cables are buried underground, they are less likely to be damaged by adverse weather conditions or wildlife. You won't have to worry about the cable being blown down in a storm or chewed by wildlife.

2. Out of Sight

Another benefit to using underground fiber-optic cables is that they are out of sight and not an eyesore. Installers can place them discreetly along your curb or property line, and no one will ever know they're there.

3. Use Less Space to Place Them and Get the Connection Needed

Since the cables are buried underground, installers can typically use less physical space to place them and still get the connection you need. This can be a significant advantage if you live in a tight space.

Cons of Underground Fiber Optic Cables

While there are many advantages to using underground fiber optic cables, there are also a few drawbacks to consider.

1. Significantly Higher Initial Cost

The biggest downside of underground fiber-optic cables is the significantly higher initial cost. On average, underground fiber optic installation ranges from $1-$6 per foot, depending on the fiber count. This can be a deterrent if you are on a tight budget, have a long driveway, or large property. However, keep in mind that many service providers using fiber optic cables may cover all or a portion of the installation cost when signing up for their service. Be sure to check with the service provider to understand the full costs of installation.

2. Complicated to Install

Installing underground fiber optic cables is also messier and more complicated than installing them aerially. Fiber optic installation requires excavating and burying the cables, which can be time-consuming and challenging. A skilled technician will need to complete  the job, adding to the overall cost.

3. Risk of Cable Being Damaged Due to Excavations

Underground fiber optic cables are also at risk of being damaged during future excavations. If you are doing any construction or renovations on your property, the cables could be accidentally damaged. This can be an expensive mistake and lead to frustrating and time-consuming repairs. As such, it’s important to always call a utility locating services prior to digging.

4. Expensive to Repair

If a cable is damaged or stops functioning properly, it can be expensive to repair. For repairs, crew will need to excavate again to get to the damaged cable and then repair or replace it. 

5. Not All Locations/Terrain Can Have Underground Cables

While it is possible to bury fiber optic cables almost anywhere, your location or terrain plays an important role in whether it's feasible to bury the fiber optic cables. For example, if you live in a rocky area, undergrounding the cables will nearly be impossible, while having a lot of trees on your property might lead to blockage. It's essential to take all of these factors into account before deciding whether or not underground fiber optic cables are realistic.

Protect Underground Fiber Optic Cables from Digging Animals

If you know where your fiber optic cables are buried and notice wild animals or pets digging nearby, take proactive measures before it's too late. You can use a dig defense animal barrier to keep dogs, armadillos, rabbits, etc. from digging too close to your fiber optic cables.

Utilize Critter Guard Products to Protect Aerial Cables

Underground fiber optic cables have several advantages over their aerial counterparts, but they have several drawbacks to consider as well. Before making a decision, it's crucial to weigh the pros and cons of each option and see what works best for your needs. 

If you have already installed aerial fiber optic cables, protecting them against damage from rodents, squirrels, and other critters is essential. Critter Guard offers a variety of products to keep your aerial cables safe, including the pole guards and line guards, which act as barriers to keep animals from reaching the cables. For more information, contact us today to learn more about Critter Guard and how we can help protect your overhead power lines!

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